Why this is important to Wisconsin businesses: Wisconsin is a global center for energy, power, and controls.
Plans for a major energy initiative for Southeast Asia have taken two big steps forward.
A deal was signed in May 2025 to begin planning construction of an undersea cable to transmit electricity between Indonesia and Singapore. The project, known as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Power Grid, has been under discussion for decades.
Along with that, Singapore’s government has appointed Singapore Energy Interconnections (SGEI), a newly incorporated government-linked company, to specialize in developing the cross-border power infrastructure.
The grid connection is considered essential for countries in the region to exchange renewably generated power with each other, according to the Straits Times. It is also part of a broader effort to improve energy security and cut carbon emissions.
In September 2024, Singapore announced a goal of importing 6 gigawatts (GW) of low-carbon electricity from its neighbors by 2035, which will provide about one-third of its projected energy needs and reduce its carbon footprint. The power will come primarily from solar energy generated in Indonesia.
A memorandum of understanding was signed by SGEI and Singa Renewables, a joint venture between French energy giant TotalEnergies and multinational conglomerate Royal Golden Eagle, which has businesses in energy and palm oil.
According to the World Bank Group, completing the ASEAN Power Grid by 2045 will cost an estimated $800 billion in generation and transmission investments.
Wisconsin has nearly 8,000 companies in the energy and power control sector. Firms with expertise in grid infrastructure—such as power transmission systems, energy storage, and control technologies—can contribute to projects like the subsea cable network. Companies specializing in renewable energy project development, smart grid solutions, and electrical components may also find export opportunities.
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